REVIEW OF THE LCA ELEMENTS APPLYING TO THE MICROALGAE LIPID EXTRACTION

Abstract

Although significant studies of microalgae have been published, there is no clear information regarding the advantages, challenges, or feasibility of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) production in a sustainable large-scale process. Such information on the current state of PUFA extraction applied to feed and food is particularly important for researchers and stakeholders to identify and apply the most sustainable technology. Based on highly cited academic articles and other digital libraries of academic journals, this study aims to provide a comparison between different microalgae lipid extraction methods through LCA parameters evaluation. PUFA extraction from microalgae Nannochloropsis sp. used as feedstock, is evaluated using methods such as ultrasound, microwave, supercritical fluid extraction, and accelerated solvent extraction in a comprehensive review. Extraction yield, nature of the extraction solvent, energy type source and consumption, labour, and extraction time influenced the specific LCA parameters, quantified for global warming potential, ecotoxicity potential, fossil resource scarcity, and cumulative energy demand. It is possible to reduce production costs and environmental impact by selecting the appropriate method and optimizing these parameters.